Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday took a guided tour along the ceasefire line in the old city of Nicosia with Cyprus President Nikos Christodoulides.
The Republic of Cyprus shared the moment on X, calling attention to the visible signs of Turkish occupation since 1974.
PM Modi’s visit to Cyprus, lasting nearly 24 hours, comes amid rising tensions between India and Turkey. Ankara continues to support Pakistan and recognises the so-called Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, contributing to strained relations with Nicosia.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said the leaders walked through the resilient heart of Nicosia, symbolising Cyprus’s strength. PM Modi thanked President Christodoulides and said, “We look forward to closer people-to-people linkages with Cyprus!”
This marked the first visit by an Indian Prime Minister to Cyprus in over 20 years.
MEA Secretary (West) Tanmaya Lal highlighted that the visit deepens the India-Cyprus partnership and aligns with India’s broader strategic interests in the EU and the Mediterranean.
Several agreements were signed, reinforcing commitments to boost cooperation. The leaders reaffirmed their focus on deepening bilateral ties in areas such as trade, defence, technology, tourism, and connectivity.
President Christodoulides conferred the Grand Cross of the Order of Makarios III on PM Modi at the Presidential Palace. It marks PM Modi’s 23rd global honour, reflecting his growing stature as a global statesman.
PM Modi was welcomed with full ceremonial honours, including military band tributes and national anthems. He laid a wreath at the statue of Archbishop Makarios III before engaging in private talks with the Cypriot leader.
Christodoulides described India as a vital strategic ally and gateway to Europe. He expressed gratitude for India’s consistent support on the Cyprus issue and pledged Cyprus’s backing in India’s fight against international terrorism.
The joint declaration adopted during the visit reaffirmed Cyprus’s role as a reliable EU partner for India in the Mediterranean and broader Middle East. Cyprus will also use its upcoming EU Council Presidency in 2026 to deepen India-EU relations.
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